The Ottawa Redblacks are entering the 2026 CFL season with renewed optimism, driven by significant roster changes and a new leadership approach. Head coach and general manager Ryan Dinwiddie emphasized a process-driven mindset during training camp, stating, 'We've got to have a process-driven mindset, and that's each day in everything we do. Everything matters.'
A Key Addition: Greg Bell
Greg Bell, a standout running back, is back at TD Place, where he made his CFL debut nearly 47 months ago with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats. The 27-year-old, who rushed for 1,038 yards and six touchdowns last season while adding 426 receiving yards, is expected to be the most impactful offensive player signed by the Redblacks in the off-season. Bell recalled his first game in Ottawa, saying, 'That's my favourite memory (of TD Place). That's how I started my career.'
Bell's arrival is a clear upgrade over last year's top American back, William Stanback. He will share the backfield with Canadian Daniel Adeboboye but is expected to handle the majority of snaps. Dinwiddie, who also serves as offensive coordinator, praised Bell's versatility: 'We've got a guy that can catch out of the backfield, so we'll probably do some more free release stuff for the back, and also get him out of the box and let him play receiver. He allows me to be very multiple in our approach.'
Training Camp and Roster Overhaul
Of the 95 players at training camp, only about 30 were part of the 2025 team that finished last in the league with a 4-14 record. Dinwiddie noted the healthy competition on Day 2: 'I thought guys were flying around. Normally, on the second day, guys are a little bit sore, a little mentally fatigued after having a lot thrown at them. I didn't think we had any problems. The defence had a great day. The offence, like normally is the case, is going to start a little bit slower, but we did some good things on offence. There are just some things we need to clean up.'
Dinwiddie, who previously coached the Toronto Argonauts, had Bell high on his wish list during free agency. 'When we talked to him in the (free agent signing) window, it didn't take long for us to get that one done. There was a bunch of guys that were kind of on my wish list, but I would say he was one of the guys at the top.'
Looking Ahead
With a revamped roster and a clear focus on discipline and execution, the Redblacks are aiming to climb out of the league's basement. The combination of Dinwiddie's leadership and Bell's dynamic playmaking ability gives Ottawa fans reason to believe that a turnaround is possible in 2026.
